Seven Days to a Holiday-Ready Home

Is your home merry, bright and ready for holiday guests? If it still needs some work, here is a seven-day checklist to help you prepare your home for holiday entertaining.

Day one: Walk through your home making notes of any imperfections you do not want guests to see. Don’t take it all on yourself; gather your family and divide the tasks.

Day two: Make sure you can see guests coming.

Make your windows clean and streak-free by mixing vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Wipe down with a microfiber cloth.

Wipe down or mop base boards and blinds.

Launder and press window treatments.

Launder bedding in guest rooms, if needed.

Day three: Whatever you do, don’t neglect the bathroom.

Use sanitizer and a stiff bristled brush. Ensure everything is in working condition, especially for those staying at your home for an extended period of time.

Stock up on new towels and face cloths, and have a supply of toilet paper, facial tissue and extra tooth brushes on hand just in case.

Day four: What’s lurking in the back of the fridge? Clean out and wipe down the fridge before restocking for guests. You don’t want them riffling through holiday goodies to find a science project lurking in the back.

Day five: Focus on the entry way. This is the first place your guests will see, so make sure it is welcoming.

Wipe down your front door, give your doormat a good shake or sweep, and make sure your furniture and porch hasn’t collected dust from the fall weather.

Make room in the coat closet for guests; add fresh hangers if needed.

Day six: The kitchen is the heart of the home and a gathering place. Make sure it is ready.

Clean kitchen, including light fixtures; deodorize sinks and sanitize counter tops so they are ready for baking.

Dust hard surfaces, including book shelves and frames, polish doorknobs and wipe down light switches.

Have your carpets/upholstery professionally cleaned ,getting up the dirt and dust that you just put there while cleaning the upper part of your home.